The Future of Consumerist

Over the last twelve years, Consumerist has been a steadfast proponent and voice on behalf of consumers, from exposing shady practices by secretive cable companies to pushing for action against dodgy payday lenders. Now, we’re joining forces with Consumer Reports, our parent organization, to cultivate the next generation of consumer advocacy.

Stay tuned as Consumerist’s current and future content finds its home as a part of the Consumer Reports brand. In the meantime, you can access existing Consumerist content below, and we encourage you to visit Consumer Reports to read the latest consumer news.

Over in ye olde Europe, shoppers with an eye for trendy clothing are very familiar with Topshop, which is one step up from say, H&M, but not as expensive as a traditional luxury department store. But Americans have been going without the popular chain in most parts of the country, which is why it’s teaming up with Nordstrom to bring its fashion offerings to the masses.

The two companies announced the joint effort, which will bring Topshop and Topman goods to 14 Nordstrom locations around the country starting September 10, as well as online.

“I felt Nordstrom, because they are not specifically in our market, was a good reason to go with them, to have a point of difference,” Topshop’s owner Philip Green told Reuters. “Their customers understand fashion. They just possibly have not had the newness and speed of product that we have, at a more affordable level.”

Oh yes, affordability. We all know how Americans love fashion that seems a bit fancy but isn’t outrageously expensive, as evidenced by the immense popularity of stores like Target offering designer goods on the cheap.

An average of 4,000 square feet will be devoted to the Topshop merchandise at each Nordstrom location, and the hope is that the the deal could progress “way beyond” 14 stores, adds Green.

Soon you could be wearing a purple denim jacket, just like those super cool mannequins. Imagine that.